Jiráskův most Bridge
Jiráskův most connects right-hand Nové Město with left-hand Smíchov. The construction started in 1929 according to the design of architect Vlastislav Hofman and engineer František Mencla. The material was chosen by a reinforced concrete - five mantle pillars, each four feet wide, is covered with granite blocks. The bridge is 310.6 metres long and 21 metres wide. It consists of six arches with a range of 45 to 51 meters. The outside surfaces are covered with a plaster made of artificial stone, concrete railing and lighting masts have a terraced surface.
The bridge was put into operation in two stages. First, in 1931, its central section with tram rails was operational, then on 18 October 1933 the rest. The tracks eventually proved unnecessary and were removed. After the bridge, there was a single Prague trolleybus track connecting the two Vltava shores.
The building was defended by the baroque pavilion on the Smíchov side allegedly from Kilián Ignác Dientzenhofer. Originally, it was decided to move 110 metres upstream of the river, but eventually it was demolished because the insurance company was unable to guarantee the risk of a successful transfer. In the historical plans, the bridge was originally intended to appear in a completely different place - between Mysálek Street and Janáček waterfront.
The building hides military secrets. In two pillars, seamless pipes were placed for possible destruction of the bridge of charges. During World War II, German soldiers conked them up for fear that the Czech resistance would blow him up.
The bridge name changed over the years. Between 1940 and 1945 Dientzenhofer's bridge was named in honor of the Baroque architect, since 1945 the name Jiráskův most has returned. In 2012, historian Petr Vilgus initiated a discussion about the renaming of the Václav Havel Bridge, who lived and worked here for many years.
Today, the bridge management is divided between three urban areas: MK Praha 5 manages the western half, MH Praha 1 northeast quarter and MH Praha 2 southeast quarter. In 2019, the railing was replaced. On the Smichov side you can still see the remnants of the waterfront supports - the silent testimony of the original building plans that never took place.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1929
- Opening of the bridge construction, demolishing the Baroque pavilion on the Smíchov side due to its obstacle status.
- 1931
- Complete the middle part of the bridge with tram tracks which were later removed.
- 1933
- The completion and commissioning of the entire bridge, the bridge was named after the writer Alois Jirásek.
- 1940
- Renaming the bridge to the Dientzenhofer Bridge during the German occupation.
Architectural development
The bridge was built from reinforced concrete with five pillars lined with granite blocks. The outside surfaces are coated with an artificial stone, the railing is concrete with a terraced surface. In 2019, the railings were replaced. The original plans from the time of Austria-Hungary envisaged another location of the bridge which was not implemented.
Historical events
- 1929
- The beginning of the bridge construction according to the project Vlastislav Hofman and František Mencla.
- 1931
- Completion and commissioning of the central bridge with tram tracks.
- 1933
- Completion and commissioning of the entire bridge, removal of tram tracks.
- 1940-1945
- Renaming the bridge to the Dientzenhofer Bridge during the occupation.
Points of interest
- The bridge was built in 1929-1933 and connects Nové Město with the left bank of Smíchov.
- Originally planned in a different place - between Mystery Street and Janáček's waterfront.
- In its pillars were hidden the seamless pipes for possible destruction, which were sealed by the Germans during World War II.
- At the construction site, he defended the baroque pavilion, which was eventually demolished due to the risk of movement.
- The bridge was in operation in two stages - first in 1931 (with tram tracks), then on 18 October 1933.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
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This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Jiráskův Bridge is the seventh bridge across the Vltava River in Prague, counting downstream. From Jirásek Square it connects Nové Město on the right bank with Smíchov on the left.
Construction began in 1929 according to a design by architect Vlastislav Hofman and engineer František Mencl. The bridge is made of reinforced concrete, measures 310.6 meters in length and 21 meters in width. It spans six arches with a range of 45 to 51 meters. Five pillars in the river are 4.6 meters wide and covered with granite blocks. The outer surfaces are covered with artificial stone plaster. The concrete railings and lighting poles have a polished tuff surface.
The bridge went into operation in two stages. First in 1931 its central section with tram tracks, then the rest on October 18, 1933. The tracks proved unnecessary and were removed. After that, however, the only Prague trolleybus line that connected both banks of the Vltava ran across the bridge.
Construction on the Smíchov side was obstructed by a Baroque pavilion, which was allegedly designed by Kilian Ignatz Dientzenhofer. At first it was planned to move it 110 meters upstream. In the end it was demolished because no insurance company could be found that would cover the damages if the relocation failed.
According to plans from the Austro-Hungarian period, the bridge was originally supposed to lead elsewhere, between Myslíková Street and Janáček Embankment across Žofín and today's Dětský Island. On the Smíchov side, embankment abutments from this plan still remain today, which were never used.
Seamless pipes were embedded in two pillars. If needed, an explosive charge was to be inserted into them and the bridge destroyed. During the Second World War, German soldiers concreted them in because they feared that Czech resistance fighters would blow the bridge up.
With its railings and lighting columns, Jiráskův Bridge resembled a smaller bridge on Petrogradská Street in Vršovice near the Jitřenka Villa. It is unclear which of the two bridges is older and whether the designers did not try out their design on the smaller one first. By 2019, however, the railings there had been replaced.
The bridge has borne the name of Alois Jirásek since 1931. From 1940 to 1945 it was called Dientzenhofer Bridge, and after the war it returned to its original name. In 2012, a discussion began about historian Petr Vilgus's proposal to rename it after Václav Havel. The former president had lived and worked in the vicinity of the bridge for many years.
The management of the bridge is divided among three municipal districts. The western half is managed by Prague 5, the northeastern quarter by Prague 1, and the southeastern quarter by Prague 2.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit the Jirásek Bridge is during the morning hours when the bridge is minimal and you can easily see its architectural details. The ideal is also the late afternoon when the sun shines from the side and creates interesting shadows on the arches of the bridge. During the summer months avoid the noon hours when the bridge is often busy.
The location is well accessible by trams and buses that stop nearby.
When visiting a bridge, wear comfortable shoes because the path along the bridge is quite long and part of the sidewalk is reinforced. It is also convenient to take a map or navigation so that you can easily navigate around. In the summer months bring plenty of water and sun protection because there are not many shadows on the bridge.
Photography on the Jirásek Bridge is a great way to capture its beauty. The best places for pictures are the arches of the bridge and the views of the Vltava from both sides. It is recommended to photograph in the morning or afternoon light, when shadows are softer and colours are more vivid. Interesting footage can also be obtained from Jirásek Square, from where the bridge is well seen.
Several interesting places are worth visiting around the bridge. Opposite the bridge lies Jirásek Square, which is an ideal place to relax and observe the surroundings. On the left bank of the Vltava is the Smíchov waterfront, where you can walk by foot and enjoy the view of the bridge. The žofin cemetery, located about a mile south-east, is a quiet place with a rich history and interesting graves of important personalities.
For families with children, visiting the Jirásek Bridge is a great opportunity for active spending time. Children can see the bridge and its construction, which is also interesting for younger visitors. In the vicinity of the bridge it is possible to play in Jiráskov Square or to see Zofín cemetery, where there is also a children's playground and a quiet area for rest. It is also recommended to visit nearby parks where children can run and play.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
This is a structure in a public space that can usually be seen from outside free of charge. We have not verified that this particular one is freely accessible.
Where is the monument?
Location: Jiráskův most, Nové Město, Praha, Hlavní město Praha. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 41447/1-2108).
For kids
Imagine going back 93 years and finding yourself in a place where Jiráskův most stands in Prague today. Local people have called this location "Candlestick cliffs" and lived here since the Middle Ages. They were fishermen who caught fish in Vltava and sold them on the market.
It's like time stopped when the first bridge showed up. It was a 1350 wooden bridge connecting two quarters of the city. But the bridge gradually disassembled and people had to look for a new way to enter the city across the river.
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Trips and activities nearby
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Thematic cruise route to New Town and the surrounding area with visit to Jirásek Bridge
1.Jiráskův most The bridge named after writer A. Jirásek is a unique combination of modern architecture and historical context. Its glass construction and lighting create a picturesque evening atmosphere in Vltava. It is worth visiting for his aesthetics as well as as as an entrance gate to Jirásek Square.
2. Jirásek Square Right across from the bridge there is a square with historic houses and living urban life. There is also a memorial in memory of A. Jirásek and the possibility of sitting in cafes overlooking Vltava. It is an ideal place for a short rest before the next part of the trip.
3. Smíchov waterfront On the left bank of Vltava stretches a picturesque waterfront with a promenade and bathing possibilities in the summer months. It's a great place to walk along the river, where modern architecture and nature mingle. Here you can also see the shipping and view of Jiráskův most from a different angle.
4. Žofin Cemetery About a kilometer to the southeast of the centre is located a quiet Zofín cemetery, which is one of the oldest and most important in Prague. Many prominent figures are buried here, such as Karel Čapek, a writer. For lovers of history and architecture, the cemetery offers a rich collection of tombstones and monuments.
5. Children's Island Just opposite the Jirásek Bridge on the right bank is located the Children's Island, an ideal place for a family cruise. There are children's playground, cycling trails and picnic areas. It's a great place to relax and spend an active time in nature.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring In the spring months, Jiráskův most will turn into a picturesque place where historical architecture with flowering nature intersects. The light of the sun, which is reflected from stone arches and water levels, creates fine shadows and gives the memory a romantic touch. Around the bridge, trees and bushes begin to bloom, while the first visitors who enjoy walking around New Town appear on the shore. The atmosphere is quiet but lively - ideal for shooting or short sitting on benches. It is recommended to visit in March or April when there are fewer people than in the summer months. The clothes are suitable layered because the weather can be variable - from sunny days to cold rainy wounds. The best time is early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the crowds have not yet grown.
Summer In summer months, Jiráskův most becomes one of the most visited places in Prague, where busy urban life meets quiet water scenery. Sun rays create a light and shadow game on stone structures, while the water under the bridge attracts you to rest. The surrounding area is lively - tourists, cyclists and local citizens are around, and in the main summer months (July, August) the surrounding area of the bridge can be densely occupied. It is recommended to come early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds, or to choose the evening hours when heat retreats and the bridge gains a more mysterious atmosphere. Clothes should be light, but with sun protection - hat, sunglasses and light sweater for the evening. It is also appropriate to take a bottle of water, because in summer days there may be little shade around the bridge.
Autumn Autumn brings a rich variety of colours to the surroundings of the Jirásek Bridge - golden and red tree leaves are reflected in the water and create a picturesque background. Cooler air and longer shadows give the monument a nostalgic and calm feel, while the afternoon sun creates warm, soft lighting on the bridge. The area is still relatively quiet in September and October, but in November the first visitors start to appear, enjoying their walks before winter. It is recommended to visit in September or early October when the weather is pleasant and leaves have not yet lost their colour. Clothes should be warm but not too mass - sweater, hooded jackets and waterproof shoes are ideal. The best time is the afternoon when the sun shines enough, but it's not too cold yet.
Winter In the winter months Jiráskův most will turn into a fairy tale scenery, where snowflakes are calmly settled on rocks and the water level gets mirror shine. Freezing air and foggy mornings give the memory a mysterious atmosphere, while the sun rays of the afternoon create beautiful glare on the bridge. In December, during advent time, the surrounding area is often decorated with shining lamps and the Christmas atmosphere amplifies the charm of the place. It is recommended to visit in January or February when there are fewer tourists and snow cover can be the most beautiful. Clothes should be warm and comfortable - warm winter jackets, gloves, caps and waterproof shoes are essential. The best time is the afternoon, when the light is sufficient and the opening times of the monuments still allow a tour. In winter it is also advisable to follow the opening times of the bridge, which may be shortened in some days.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
View from the area
This animation was generated by artificial intelligence from a real photograph of the surroundings. The motion and details are not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Photos: PatrikPaprika / CC BY-SA 3.0 — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
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